Snow removal specialists, car mechanics and towing services, in particular, see green when the white fluff falls from the sky.

"Oh my God, it's been going good lately," Indiana-based snow removal specialist Eric Gold told WSBT. While many of his customers dread the thought of shoveling, scraping and digging away, Gold anticipates the cash that comes along with big storms. "Hopefully we'll get the 6 to 8 [inches] that's coming."

David Campion, owner of Nitro Snow Plowing in southeast Minnesota, told ABC 6 News that he gets a little antsy waiting for the first big snow storm. After all, his business depends on it. "There's a lot of stake in this," Campion said. "You know every body that works with snow, mechanics, you know, selling new batteries, new tires, so this has got a lot of investment for everybody."

Stakes are particularly high for snow removal companies in markets saturated with specialists, where competition is fierce. Jim Pelz, owner of J.P. Services Incorporated in Northeast Ohio, told News 5 ABC that customers need to do their homework before choosing a company. He suggested getting references first. The company should provide a contract in writing, and the plow operator should carry insurance information at all times. He also said finding a company close to home is a smart move. "In most cases, a company based in your neighborhood can more quickly respond to your needs during a heavy snow storm."